I'm a visual learner, how about you? I've personally used screencasting not only for my students, but for the faculty in my school. With Jing, I was able to show them how to use the calendars in FirstClass (our email program) to sign up for the computer lab. Students can view tutorials on how to use our library's database of books.. How about using one of these programs to create a lesson for your students when you are out sick? With so many to choose from, see what works best for you.
Camstudio- for Windows computers only; files are in AVI and SWF format.
Screencastle- one click screencasting through your browser
Camstudio- for Windows computers only; files are in AVI and SWF format.
Copernicus- for Macintosh computers only; captures stills and video with NO audio
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FreeScreencast- download their software and create your screencast; embed in your site or share with the worldJing- available for Windows or Macintosh, Jing lets you capture your screen; larger swf files and 5 minute limit in the free version. Pro version $$.
Screencast-o-matic- available for Windows or Macintosh; videos can be up to 15 minutes long in the free version; file is .mov format and stored on their website.
Screenpresso- only available for Windows computers; screenshots in image formats jpg, png, bmp, gif. (no screen motion, just screen capture) You can edit your images within this program.
ScreenR- use your Twitter account to save your work and publish your screencast
Screentoaster- free online screen recorder
Webinaria- for Windows computers only; files can be downloaded in FLV (FLASH) format.